Incisional hernia
Hernia (lump) at a previous surgical scar
If you have an incisional hernia, HCA UK has the expertise and facilities for incisional hernia repair
What is an incisional hernia?
Incisional hernia can be recurrent, and in some circumstances can be classed as complex, particularly when other medical conditions have been diagnosed.
Need to know
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What are the symptoms of an incisional hernia? icon plus
Hernias generally cause few symptoms. If you have an incisional hernia, you may notice a swelling or lump (bulge) in your tummy where you’ve had previous surgery (such as having your appendix out or a C-section).
You may be able to push the lump back in or it might seem to go away when you lie down. If you cough or strain, the bulge may reappear.
As with all hernias, they can sometimes cause severe pain and vomiting. This happens if the hernia strangulates (when fatty tissue or parts of the bowel get caught in the hernia). In these situations, emergency surgery is needed to solve the problem. -
How is an incisional hernia diagnosed? icon plus
Your GP or consultant should be able to identify if you have a hernia by examining your lump and the affected area.
Sometimes it may be necessary to carry out an ultrasound scan to confirm the diagnosis. This is a simple, painless and non-invasive procedure that will help to assess its severity.
The following factors may be taken into consideration before any treatment options are recommended:
- The risk of strangulation (when fatty tissue or parts of the bowel get caught in the hernia)
- If your symptoms are changing or the hernia is getting bigger.
- The effect the hernia is having on your day-to-day life.
- Your health in general.
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Potential treatment options for an incisional hernia icon plus
If your consultant recommends surgery, the procedure usually involves a general anaesthetic.
There are two ways incisional hernias can be treated surgically:
- keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery, which involves making two to four tiny cuts made near your naval, so the hernia can be pushed back into your abdomen
- open surgery, where a larger cut is made in the skin
More about hernia repair surgery or surgery for a recurrent incisional hernia
Consultants specialising in incisional hernias
Our locations
From complex hernia surgery to diagnostic tests and procedures, we provide exceptional surgical care across our network of hospitals, with consultations taking place at our outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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The Portland Hospital
205 - 209 Great Portland Street
London W1W 5AH
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Chelsea Outpatients
272 & 280 Kings Road
London SW3 5AW
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The Wellington Hospital Elstree Waterfront
The Waterfront Business Park
Beaufort House, Elstree Road
Elstree WD6 3BS
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
Book an appointment
Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
Call us today
020 7079 4344